Updated: June 11, 2023

Gopher plant (Euphorbia rigida) is a drought-tolerant succulent that is native to the Mediterranean region. It belongs to the spurge family, and is also known as upright myrtle spurge, silver spurge or gopher spurge. This plant is often grown for its unique blue-green foliage and yellow flowers that bloom in the spring. One of the key factors to consider when growing gopher plant is watering. In this article, we will discuss how much water gopher plant needs.

Factors That Affect Gopher Plant Watering

Before we dive into how much water gopher plant needs, it’s important to understand the factors that affect plant watering. Here are some of the key factors that affect how much water gopher plant needs:

Climate

Gopher plants are drought-tolerant succulents that thrive in warm and dry climates. They do not require frequent watering like other plants, but they still need water to survive. If you live in an area with hot and dry summers, your gopher plant will need more water than if you live in a cooler and wetter area.

Soil Type

The type of soil you grow your gopher plant in can also affect watering needs. Gopher plants prefer well-drained soil that is sandy or gravelly. If your soil is heavy clay or retains moisture, you may need to water less frequently.

Plant Size

The size of your gopher plant can also affect watering needs. Larger plants may require more water than smaller ones. It’s important to monitor your plant’s growth and adjust watering accordingly.

How Much Water Does Gopher Plant Need?

Now that we understand the factors that affect watering needs, let’s talk about how much water gopher plant needs. As a general rule of thumb, gopher plant should be watered once every two weeks during the growing season (spring and summer). During the dormant season (fall and winter), watering can be reduced to once a month or as needed.

When watering gopher plant, it’s important to water deeply but infrequently. This means watering until the soil is moist to a depth of at least 6 inches. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other problems.

Signs of Overwatering or Underwatering Gopher Plant

Knowing when to water your gopher plant can be tricky, especially if you’re new to succulent gardening. Here are some signs of overwatering and underwatering to look out for:

Overwatering

  • Yellowing leaves
  • Soft or mushy stems
  • Black or brown spots on leaves
  • Foul odor from soil

Underwatering

  • Wilting leaves
  • Dry and crispy leaves
  • Slow growth or no growth
  • Leaves falling off

FAQ

Can I water my gopher plant with a spray bottle?

No, it’s best to water gopher plant at the base with a watering can or hose. Spraying the foliage can lead to fungal diseases.

How often should I fertilize my gopher plant?

Gopher plant does not require frequent fertilizing. You can fertilize once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Can I grow gopher plant indoors?

Yes, you can grow gopher plant indoors as long as it receives enough sunlight and is planted in well-draining soil.

In conclusion, gopher plant is a drought-tolerant succulent that requires infrequent but deep watering. By understanding the factors that affect watering needs, you can ensure your gopher plant thrives and stays healthy. Remember to monitor your plant for signs of overwatering or underwatering, and adjust watering accordingly.

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